Bohemia Village Voice

Sally Phillips.

The Voice asked  first of all about her background.
Sally: I’ve lived in Hastings since the mid-eighties. Until recently, for 20 years I helped run the local branch of the Woodcraft Folk youth group. I also still do a lot of voluntary work, visiting and supporting people who are lonely or vulnerable. And I also do childminding for people in difficult circumstances who need a break from looking after their children. Having been through motherhood I know how important it is to have time for yourself.
Voice: What’s your political experience?
Sally: I’ve been standing in elections since 1985. I usually stand in Braybrooke ward, where I live. I’ve been a Green for more than 30 years – since we were the Ecology Party.
Voice: What are the local issues?
Sally: The Traveller site was a big issue. I believe in having Traveller sites, but the needs of the local community are important. The Summerfields site should never have been suggested. Also the pier, which I’ve photgraphed a lot. The Council needs to have proper surveys done as soon as possible. They could even confiscate it from its current owner if he refuses to pay for its upkeep. Gensing also needs better public transport, but I would like to encourage the idea of a walking bus to local schools, to reduce traffic congestion. And when there are developments, a chunk of any money the Council makes from land it sells should be ploughed back into the community. The development policy in Hastings is very short-term, and there’s not enough consultation with local people, or else their views aren’t taken into consideration.
Voice: What distinguishes you from the other candidates?
Sally: Quality of life should be the top priority of our society, not economic growth. I like the idea of supporting small businesses, keeping money in the community, rather than letting big business syphon it off. But regeneration is not a question of economics, it’s about lifting people’s spirits. I’d like to ask the other candidates ‘How can the idea of economic growth work, with all the inevitable increases in consumption and pollution?’